Guyanese Jamaali Homer walked away victorious in the girls’ U14 Consolation final of the International Tennis Federation (ITF) Wilson Junior Open tournament at the Grassroots Tennis Centre Thursday night, Kingstown St. Vincent.
Homer defeated Shania Williams in a three set thriller 4-1, 2-4, and 4-1.
According to reports, after winning the final point Homer, who has also represented Guyana at table tennis, leapt into the air.
The win was a major achievement for the player who is relatively new to the circuit.
Her joy was short-lived, however, when she returned later in the afternoon to play in the final of the girls’ U14 doubles, teaming up with compatriot, Afruica Gentle.
Playing against the top seeded Benn sisters from St Vincent, Amarlia and Gabrielle, the Guyanese juniors showed great skill and finesse to easily grab the first set 6-2. The second set was more of a closely contested affair with the Vincentian sisters eking out the vital break in the 12 the game to claim the set 7-5.
The Guyanese duo came close to winning the title but lost in a closely contested third set super tie breaker 11-13.
Despite the defeat the pair said that they were very appreciative to have been given the opportunity to compete at one of the more highly rated junior tournaments in the region.
The team is expected to return to Guyana this weekend.
